The Benefits of Daily Physical Activity

●     Reduces the risk of heart disease by improving blood circulation throughout the body

●     Keeps weight under control

●     Improves blood cholesterol levels

●     Prevents and manages high blood pressure

●     Prevents bone loss

●     Boosts energy level

●     Helps manage stress

●     Releases tension

●     Improves the ability to fall asleep quickly and sleep well

●     Improves self-image

●     Counters anxiety and depression and increases enthusiasm and optimism

●     Increases muscle strength, increasing the ability to do other physical activities

●     Provides a way to share an activity with family and friends

●     Establishes good heart-healthy habits in children and counters the conditions (obesity, high blood pressure, poor cholesterol levels, poor lifestyle habits, etc.) that lead to heart attack and stroke later in life

●     In older people, helps delay or prevent chronic illnesses and diseases associated with aging and maintains quality of life and independence longer

 Reprinted with Permission

www.americanheart.org | American Heart Association, Inc.